[Malnutrition in the aged--effect of physical, mental, psychological and social factors].

The elderly are considered a risk group for malnutrition, due not only to poor nutrition, but also to other aspects of daily life which affect food intake and nutritional status. In this study 11 factors of physical, mental, psychical, and social origin have been defined as risk-factors leading to malnutrition. Their appearance in a group of 100 geriatric patients above the age of 75 years has been examined. Immobility and difficulties with chewing were found in nearly 50% of the patients. Social problems were observed in 22%-31%. In contrast, there was usually a daily hot meal available to those studied. The relation between the number of risk factors and the nutritional status was obvious. None of the 23 underweight patients was without a risk factor. In 17 (74%) of these patients four or more risk factors were found. For an amelioration of the nutritional situation not only a well balanced diet should be available but the elderly person's complete life situation must be considered.